The investigation began after the theft-in-progress victim told police two males had taken a motor off of his boat , which was docked in the canal behind his home and then fled southbound down the canal in small aluminum boats.

Based on the detailed description of the boats, one officer, Officer Brian Gumm, remembered seeing a boat and persons matching that description while patrolling the Cape Coral Yacht Club earlier.

Officers responded to the area and quickly located vehicles leaving the area of the Cape Coral Yacht Club, each pulling small boats that matched the provided descriptions, officials said in a prepared statement released Friday.

Investigatory traffic stops were made on both vehicles and officials say each contained a stolen boat motor from two separate victims.

Post-Miranda, confessions were obtained from both suspects,police said.

A second victim was located at 411 S.E. 32nd Street by Officer Justin DeRosso. The victims later drove to the scenes of the traffic stops and identified their property. The stolen boat motors were returned to the victims after digital photos were taken. Cape Coral Police Department Property Crimes Detectives were advised and Detective Toleman responded to the scene. Evidence Tech Fenske also responded.

"Quick action by an observant citizen, coupled with sound patrol and investigative work resulted in a quick apprehension and property being returned to its rightful owners. This was textbook police work," said Det. Sgt. Dana Coston, police spokesperson, in the statement.